Category Columns
COLUMN: Barred owls spared? Other birds in danger?
Local birder and natural history author Harry Fuller explains what recent federal environmental policy shifts mean for birds.
COLUMN: Sandhill cranes, longtime inspiration for humans, face avian flu threat
As sandhill cranes migrate north through Oregon, columnist and bird expert Harry Fuller reflects on their presence in Oregon.
COLUMN: Preparing for emergencies helps our community recover
Mark Wardell, the leader of West Salem’s Community Emergency Response Team, explains the role emergency management agencies play in preparing for disasters, and how you can help their work.
COLUMN: Harriers’ slow flight keeps them nimble when hunting
Bird expert Harry Fuller brings to life the world of northern harriers, who nest on the ground around Salem.
COLUMN: Diving into the pros and cons of Medicare Advantage
Jim Sellers, former Oregon journalist and state agency employee, writes a regular column to help thousands in Salem deal with the confusing world of Medicare and federal benefits. He's available to answer your questions.
COLUMN: Black History Month in Salem and beyond
Kimberli Fitzgerald, Salem's historic preservation officer, lays out the history of Black History Month and one of Oregon's first Black pioneers, who was brought to the Salem area as a slave.
COLUMN: What to know about Willamette Valley wild turkeys and bird flu
Columnist and bird expert Harry Fuller walks through common-sense avian flu precautions people can take, but reports people don't need to worry about roving turkey flocks.
COLUMN: Building a first-aid kit
Mark Wardell, the leader of West Salem’s Community Emergency Response Team, explains how to stock a first-aid kit to prepare for emergencies.
COLUMN: What to know about Medicare changes in 2025
Jim Sellers, former Oregon journalist and state agency employee, writes a regular column to help thousands in Salem deal with the confusing world of Medicare and federal benefits. He's available to answer your questions.